Card reading arrangement including robotic card handling responsive to card sensing

ABSTRACT

A card reader arrangement includes a robotic card handling device to enable reading of a user card during a card-based transaction. A card sensing device is located adjacent a card slot remotely located from a card reader. Responsive to the card sensing device sensing an inserted card, the robotic card handling device operates to grip the card in the slot and move it to a reading position in the card reader. The card reader can also operate in conjunction with a biometric reading device in a process of determining whether the card user is authorized to use the card. The robotic card handling device can also be operated to grip other transaction items.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/704,506filed Feb. 9, 2007, which was a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No.11/514,527 filed Sep. 1, 2006, which was a divisional of U.S.application Ser. No. 10/231,212 filed Aug. 29, 2002, which was adivisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/725,650 filed Nov. 29, 2000,which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 60/168,882filed Dec. 3, 1999, and the disclosure of each aforementionedApplication is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to apparatus systems controlled by data bearingrecords which may be classified in U.S. class 235, subclass 375. In anexemplary embodiment, a system includes a banking machine that operatesresponsive to data read from user cards through operation of aparticular card reader and handler arrangement.

BACKGROUND ART

Automated banking machines are known in the prior art. A common type ofautomated banking machine is an automated teller machine (“ATM”). ATMshave been developed which are capable of performing a variety oftransactions. Such transactions may include dispensing currency oraccepting deposits from a user. Other types of transactions includeproviding tickets, travelers checks, vouchers or gaming materials. Othertypes of automated transaction machines enable check cashing, billpayment, printing account statements, dispensing postage and receivingor providing other items of value. Other types of automated bankingmachines may be operated by a service provider such as a cashier or bankteller. Such automated banking machines may include bill counters, checkacceptors, passbook printers and other types of devices. Automatedbanking machines generally carry out transactions while causingappropriate charges and credits to be applied to the respective accountsof a user, a machine owner and/or a provider of value, such as cash,goods or services, which are effectively transferred through operationof the machine. For purposes of this disclosure, an automated bankingmachine will be considered to refer to any machine capable of carryingout transactions which involve transfers of value.

Most automated banking machines are limited to being used by only oneuser at a time. For example when one user operates most ATMs, others arerequired to form a queue and wait until it is their turn to use the ATM.This may pose an inconvenience for both customers and the ATM operator.

To serve plural customers simultaneously a number of ATMs may beinstalled at a given facility. However, such additional ATMs take upmore physical space. Physical space may be at a premium in somefacilities. Providing additional machines may also be expensive.Significant additional costs may be incurred both in acquiring andservicing machines to assure that they are operating properly. Whennumerous machines are installed at one location, each includescomponents which are generally duplicative of components in the othermachines. In addition, when one machine is upgraded or improved it isusually advisable to apply the same upgrade or improvement to all of themachines. This may add further cost and complexity for the owner of themachines.

A further limitation of most existing ATMs is the limited variety oftransactions which may be performed at a single machine. Each machineenclosure is of limited size and may only accommodate a range oftransaction function devices that can be fit within the enclosure. Itmay be desirable in some instances to add additional capabilities to anATM machine. However, the space required to include the transactionfunction devices necessary to carry out a new type of transaction maynot be available within the machine enclosure unless other transactionfunction devices are removed. As a result, it is sometimes not feasibleto add a transaction function that would be desirable.

At present when additional transaction functions are incorporated intoATMs, it is often necessary to provide larger enclosures. Such largerenclosures are not only necessary to house the devices but to alsoprovide the necessary interfaces for delivering or receiving items fromthe customer. It is common for each added transaction function devicesuch as dispensers for tickets, receipts, coupons and the like, to havea separate delivery opening in the user interface. Likewise, when a useris enabled to deposit several types of items in the machine it is commonto have a separate opening or access mechanism to receive each type ofitem from the user. Providing these capabilities further adds to thesize and complexity of the machine.

In some instances it may be desirable to add the capability to anautomated banking machine to communicate with and/or exchange items witha human service provider. Such activities may be desirable forparticular types of transactions that cannot be carried out on anautomated basis. However, such capabilities may be difficult to add toexisting machines not originally built to include such capabilities.Automated transaction machines such as medication dispensers may alsobenefit from being able to communicate with a human service provider. Insuch machines it may also be desirable to include a larger range ofmedications which can be provided to authorized users. Other types oftransactions which involve the dispense or receipt of items are commonlynot carried out with automated transaction machines because of spacerequirements of associated dispensing and receiving mechanisms.

Thus there may exist a need for an automated banking machine apparatusand system that may be capable of carrying out more types oftransactions on an automated basis. There may further exist a need foran automated banking machine apparatus and system that is capable ofbeing more readily reconfigured to add or delete functions andtransaction types. There may further exist a need for an automatedbanking machine apparatus and system that may serve customers moreefficiently including serving a plurality of customers simultaneously.There may further exist a need for an automated banking machineapparatus and system that is relatively compact, reliable and economicalto operate.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

It is an object of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention toprovide an automated banking machine apparatus.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention to provide an automated banking machine apparatus for carryingout a plurality of different transaction types.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention to provide an automated banking machine apparatus whichenables simultaneously carrying out transactions for a plurality ofusers.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention to provide an automated banking machine apparatus that makesmore effective use of floor space within a facility.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention to provide an automated banking machine apparatus which isreadily expanded and modified to change the types and character ofavailable transactions.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention to provide an automated banking machine apparatus for carryingout transactions for a plurality of customers simultaneously thatenables servicing customers in an appropriate order.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention to provide an automated banking machine apparatus for carryingout transactions on a generally automated basis but which also includesthe capability of exchanging items with a remote service provider.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention to provide an automated banking machine apparatus whichenables carrying out transactions on an interactive basis with a humanservice provider.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention to provide an automated banking machine apparatus that may bemore readily installed.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention to provide an automated banking machine apparatus that isreliable, efficient and cost effective.

Further objects of exemplary embodiments of the present invention willbe made apparent in the following Best Mode For Carrying Out Inventionand the appended claims.

The foregoing objects are accomplished in an exemplary embodiment of theinvention by an automated banking machine apparatus and system. Thesystem includes a machine including an enclosure with a plurality ofcustomer stations. The system includes one or more computers within oradjacent to an interior area of the enclosure. The enclosure houses aplurality of transaction function devices in operative connection withthe computer(s). The transaction function devices include at least onerobotic item handling device capable of moving items between transactionfunction devices and user interfaces which are included in at least onecustomer station. The user interfaces each further include input andoutput devices which enable a user to provide identifying inputs andinstructions to the machine.

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the enclosure includes oneor more walls which bound the interior area of the machine. The wallsare also in supporting connection with the user interfaces. The wallsmay be interconnected to form a kiosk or vestibule arrangement. Thewalls may be generally permanent or movable by authorized personnel. Thehousing arrangement may be located inside or outside of a buildingstructure. The walls which bound the enclosure may include one or moreinterior or exterior building walls.

In some embodiments of the invention, access to the interior area of theenclosure is limited to authorized persons. Access by authorized personsmay be achieved by having one of the walls bounding the housing beingsecured by a locking device in the operating position of the machine.Upon unlocking the locking device by an authorized person, all or aportion of the wall may be moved to provide access to the interior areaof the enclosure. Alternatively, lockable doors in the walls or inadjacent structures may be used to provide selective access to theinterior area of the enclosure and the transaction function devicestherein.

The wall arrangement bounding the enclosure of the exemplary embodimentincludes at least one opening or access mechanism at each customerstation. The robotic item handling device is operative to move itemsselectively between the transaction function devices and the customer bypassing such items through the opening or access mechanism.

The exemplary embodiment of the automated banking machine and system issuitable for use in carrying out many types of transactions. A pluralityof transaction function devices is positioned within the interior areaof the enclosure. The transaction function devices may include varioustypes of sheet dispensers. Such sheet dispensers may include notedispensers, ticket dispensers, check dispensers, stamp dispensers orsimilar dispensing devices. The interior of the enclosure may also housesheet accepting devices such as currency acceptors, check acceptors,ticket receivers or similar items.

The interior of the enclosure may also include deposit accepting devicessuch as a secure chest for holding deposited items. Other transactionfunction devices may include printing devices. Such devices may includereceipt printers, check printers, ticket printers, statement printers,journal printers or other devices which print indicia on paper, specialdocuments or sheets. Other transaction function devices within theenclosure may include a pneumatic tube type conveyor terminal forcarrying items between the machine enclosure and a service providerlocated at a service provider station disposed from the machine. Othertransaction function devices may include input and output devices whichenable visual and/or audible communication between a customer stationand a remote service provider station.

In the exemplary embodiment, the transaction function devices arearranged so that they may be accessed within the interior of theenclosure by the robotic item handling device. Such transaction functiondevices may be arranged in an efficient and compact manner. Embodimentsof the invention may include supporting structures such as racks,shelves, mounting brackets or other arrangements for holding orpositioning transaction function devices within the interior area of theenclosure. The available space within the enclosure and the supportingstructures for transaction function devices may enable such devices tobe readily added or removed.

One or more computers operating in the machine include one or more datastores in connection therewith. Data representative of a respectiveoperating location of each transaction function device and each of theopenings and access mechanisms in the customer stations may be stored inthe data store. The data store may further include programs whichoperate to cause the robotic item handling device to move items betweenthe transaction function devices and/or the openings and accessmechanisms as required to carry out transactions.

In an exemplary embodiment, the robotic item handling device includes atleast one arm movable about at least three axes. The arm is movable toany of a plurality of positions responsive to signals from the computer.The exemplary arm includes gripper fingers for selectively holding andreleasing items. Such items may include items involved in bankingtransactions such as cash, coins, receipts, envelopes, accountstatements or other documents. The gripper fingers of the exemplaryembodiment are also selectively rotatable responsive to signals from thecomputer. Such movement enables positioning the fingers to take andreceive items from the transaction function devices as well as theopenings and access mechanisms of the customer stations.

The computer in the machine of the exemplary embodiment is operative toprocess customer transaction requests. The computer operates in responseto a transaction being authorized to cause the transaction functiondevices to carry out portions of the transaction. The exemplaryautomated banking machine apparatus and system are operative to carryout banking transactions. A customer wishing to operate the machineprovides inputs through a user interface at a customer station. Suchinputs identify the customer and/or their account, the requestedtransaction type and/or an amount or quantity involved. The computerwithin the machine operates in accordance with its programming todetermine if the transaction is authorized. This may be done locally bythe computer accessing data in a local data store or throughcommunication with one or more remote computers. If the transaction isauthorized, the computer in the machine operates the transactionfunction devices to fulfill the customer's requests. For example, if thecustomer requested and has been authorized to make a cash withdrawal,the computer causes a transaction function device within the housing todispense the requested notes. The notes may be delivered within theinterior area of the enclosure through a note outlet opening on the notedispensing transaction function device. The robotic item handling deviceis then operative responsive to the computer to engage the notes withits gripper fingers and to move the notes to the appropriate customeropening or access mechanism from which the cash may be retrieved by thecustomer.

A useful aspect of an exemplary embodiment is that it may simultaneouslyservice customers at a plurality of customer stations on the machine. Inconducting banking transactions, there is often waiting time fortransaction authorization or for transaction functions to be carriedout. In this exemplary embodiment during such waiting times in onecustomer transaction, the transaction function devices are operative tocarry out steps necessary to fulfill transaction requests for customersat other transaction stations. This enables the completion of alltransactions more quickly. The computer operates to establishtransaction sequences and to maintain records of the current statusconcerning all ongoing transactions to effectively carry out each of theconcurrent transaction activities.

Embodiments of the automated banking machine apparatus and system of thepresent invention may also include communication capabilities. Suchcommunication capabilities may enable a remote service provider tocommunicate with customers at a selected customer station. This may beaccomplished through video and/or audio connections with the appropriatecustomer station. Embodiments of the invention may also enable theservice provider to exchange items with the customer through a pneumatictube conveyor or other transport device that extends between the housingof the transaction machine and a service provider station.

Exemplary embodiments of the apparatus and system may also include thecapability of providing customers with visual and audio materialsthrough output devices at the customer station. This may be done duringwaiting times during transactions or while a customer is approaching themachine to begin a transaction or after completion of transactionactivities. Exemplary embodiments of the apparatus and system includeone or more video material presentation devices which enablepresentation of video material. The presentation device is in operativeconnection with output devices of the customer stations through a videoswitching device. The video presentation material may includeinformation intended to be of interest to the user. Such material may begeneral information of interest to most users or may be selected basedon the identity of the particular user or to a person in the user'sparticular circumstances. One or more computers operating in the machinemay cause video materials to be presented and may serve as a videoswitching device. In other embodiments other devices may be used forpresenting and switching the materials, including switching devices thatoperate under the control of a human service provider.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top view of an exemplary automated banking machine apparatusused in connection with the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a transparent side view of the automated banking machine shownin FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 shows an exemplary robotic item handling device which is used asa transaction function device in the exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4 shows the robotic item handling device of FIG. 3 with an arm in aretracted position.

FIG. 5 is an isometric view of an exemplary enclosure structure used inconnection with an automated banking machine apparatus of the presentinvention.

FIG. 6 is a top view of the enclosure structure shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a top view of an enclosure of an automated banking machine.

FIG. 8 is a schematic view of a plurality of transaction functiondevices, openings or mechanisms providing access thereto.

FIG. 9 is a top view of a customer station of an exemplary embodiment ofan automated banking machine.

FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a carrier member used in connection withan exemplary customer station.

FIG. 11 is a side view of a tray of a customer station in an extendedposition.

FIG. 12 is an exemplary view of the tray shown in FIG. 11 in a retractedposition.

FIG. 13 is a top plan view of a robotic arm positioned adjacent to aseparator member which is positioned above an extendable tray.

FIG. 14 is an isometric view of an alternative customer stationarrangement.

FIG. 15 is a side view of the alternative customer station arrangementshown in FIG. 15.

FIG. 16 is an isometric view of a wall arrangement for a housing of anautomated banking machine of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a side view of gripper fingers on a robotic arm in a positionto grip a sheet presented by a transaction function device.

FIG. 18 is a front plan view of gripper fingers on the robotic armoperating to grip a sheet.

FIG. 19 is a side view of a bent sheet in a generally horizontalposition gripped by the gripper fingers.

FIG. 20 is a side view of gripper fingers pivoted to a vertical positionfor straightening a sheet.

FIG. 21 is a side view of the gripper fingers on the robotic arm pivotedfrom the position shown in FIG. 20 to a horizontal position wherein thesheet extends generally straight, horizontally.

FIG. 22 is a front view of the gripper fingers holding the sheet as inFIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is a schematic view of an automated banking machine and systemused in connection with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 24 is a transparent side view of the automated banking machinesimilar to that shown in FIG. 2 and further including a pneumatictransfer device.

FIG. 25 is a front plan view of a slot included in a user interface fordelivering and receiving items from an exemplary automated bankingmachine.

FIG. 26 is a top view of the slot shown in FIG. 25 including convergentside members for guiding items therein.

FIG. 27 is a schematic view of an exemplary software architecture thatmay be used in embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 28 is a schematic view of an alternative software architecture thatmay be used in embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 29 is a further alternative embodiment of a software architecturethat may be used in embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 30 is a schematic view of a further alternative softwarearchitecture that may be used in embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 31 is a schematic side view representing the operation of anembodiment of the invention which includes location indicators anddevice type identifying indicators on transaction function devices.

FIG. 32 is a front plan view of a customer panel of an automated bankingmachine including a plurality of vertically aligned user interfaces suchas may be used in a drive-up environment for servicing customers invehicles of varying heights.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT INVENTION

Referring now to the drawings and particularly to FIG. 1, there is showntherein an exemplary automated banking machine 10 of the presentinvention. Machine 10 includes an enclosure which is alternativelyreferred to as a housing 12. Housing 12 comprises a plurality of wallsegments which bound an interior area 14 of the machine.

Housing 12 provides three customer stations 16, 18 and 20. A customer isenabled to conduct transactions at the machine from each of the customerstations. It should be understood that while the exemplary embodimentincludes three customer stations, other embodiments of the invention mayhave a fewer or greater number of customer stations. In the exemplaryembodiment, the customer stations are similar and only one will bedescribed in detail.

Customer station 18 includes a user interface 21. The user interfaceincludes at least one output device. In the embodiment shown, display 22serves as an output device. Display 22 may include a CRT, LCD or othertype device for providing visual outputs. Of course other types ofoutput devices such as speakers, braille pads or other devices suitablefor providing outputs to a user may be included in an alternative userinterface.

The user interface 21 also includes at least one input device. The inputdevices may include a touch screen interface which may be used to sensethe position of a user's finger adjacent to display 22. Through such atouch screen input device, a user is enabled to provide inputsresponsive to outputs presented on a screen. Alternatively or inaddition, other types of input devices may be included at a customerstation. Such input devices may include a keypad, function keys,microphones or other devices through which a user may make selections orprovide information.

Another type of input device included in the exemplary embodiment of theuser interface is a card reader 24. Card reader 24 is positioned insupporting connection with the housing 12 and is accessible through acard slot 26. In the exemplary embodiment the user is enabled to inserta magnetic stripe type card through the card slot. Indicia that isencoded on the card is read by the card reader 24. Such indiciagenerally includes data representative of a user and/or their respectiveaccount(s) concerning which the user conducts transactions. It should beunderstood that while a magnetic stripe type card reader is described inconnection with the exemplary embodiment, other embodiments of theinvention may use other types of card reader or input devices foridentifying a user. Such devices may include for example a “smart card”reader which is used for reading a programmable memory positioned on acard. The information included in memory may include data representativeof a user and/or their accounts. Such encoded data may also include datarepresentative of monetary value which may be added to or subtractedfrom the card memory as transactions are conducted. In other embodimentsthe user interface may include a card slot. Cards may be taken from thecard slot to a card reader in the interior area of the housing to beread in a manner later discussed. Other types of input devices may beused in connection with embodiments of the invention such as biometrictype reading devices, voice recognition devices, speech recognitiondevices, imaging devices or other devices that are capable of receivinginputs which identify a user and/or through which a user may inputinstructions.

The user interface 21 at customer station 18 may include one or morecustomer access mechanisms. In the exemplary embodiment a customeraccess mechanism includes a tray mechanism 28. Tray mechanism 28includes a delivery area 80 for holding items which are transferredbetween the customer and the machine. The tray mechanism is selectivelymovable in the exemplary embodiment between positions in which adelivery area 80 is moved between a position in the interior area 14 ofthe housing and a position accessible from an exterior area of thehousing in which items in the delivery area of the tray may be accessedby a customer. It should be understood that while in the exemplaryembodiment the tray mechanism 28 is used as a customer access mechanism,in other embodiments other mechanisms may be used for exchangingtransaction items with a customer. Such access mechanisms may includevarious forms of openings, drawers, transports, pockets, slides or otherdevices that are suitable for passing one or more of the types of itemsinvolved in transactions conducted at the machine. For purposes of thisdisclosure, all such items shall be referred to as a tray.

In the exemplary embodiment interior area 14 of machine 10 includes oneor more computers 30. (See for example FIG. 23). The computer 30 is inoperative connection with one or more data stores schematicallyindicated 32. Data store 32 holds programs and data suitable foroperating the machine and/or for providing communications with othersystems and devices. It should be understood that while in the exemplaryembodiment only one computer and data store are shown, other embodimentsmay include a plurality of operatively connected computers and datastores. For purposes of this description, references to a computer shallalso be construed to encompass a plurality of connected computers, andreferences to a data store shall be construed as encompassing one ormore data stores which are accessible by one or more computers.

In the exemplary embodiment computer 30 is in operative connection witha plurality of transaction function devices schematically indicated 34.The transaction function devices include devices which can be operatedresponsive to the computer to carry out one or more types oftransactions which are requested by customers operating the machine. Inthe exemplary embodiment of the invention the transaction functiondevices 34 may include devices such as card reader 24, currencydispensers, ticket dispensers, printers, deposit accepting devices,transports and other mechanisms that can be operated under the controlof the computer. Such transaction function devices are shown positionedin the interior area 14 of the machine in FIGS. 1 and 2. For purposes ofthis description the one or more computers which operate in the machinemay alternatively be referred to as a controller.

Transaction function devices may be arranged about the interior area ofthe housing in various configurations. For example, such items may bevertically stacked on top of or above one another or supported from thewalls of the housing. Such transaction function devices may also bedisposed on racks or shelves or other suitable supporting devices.Transaction function devices such as currency dispensers may also bepositioned in separate enclosures which are supported on a floor surfaceand anchored thereto. Such devices may include a secure chest with asuitable lock and which may be accessed only by authorized personnel.Similarly deposit accepting mechanisms for accepting deposits in theform of envelopes, sheets or other items may be housed within secureenclosures positioned within the interior area of the housing of themachine.

Transaction function devices may also be positioned in areas adjacent tothe housing and accessible within the interior area. For example, FIG. 1shows the housing 12 in abutting relation with a wall 36. The wallseparates the interior area 14 of the enclosure from a room 37. Anopening 38 which extends through the wall enables a transaction functiondevice 40 to deliver items to or receive items from the interior areathrough the opening 38. An example of such an item might be a billdispenser that selectively dispenses bills or stacks of bills throughthe opening. This may enable providing enhanced security for device 40by placing it behind a building wall or other structure. Of coursemechanisms may be provided for limiting access through the opening 38.Other openings may also be provided in the wall. For example, in someembodiments a depository for holding deposit envelopes may have itemsdeposited therein through an opening in the wall.

In the exemplary embodiment, one of the transaction function devicesincluded in the interior area 14 is a robotic item handling device 42.The robotic item handling device later described in detail, is usable inthe exemplary embodiment to move items involved in transactions betweenthe tray or other customer access devices, and other transactionfunction devices. The robotic device 42 operates responsive to thecomputer 30 to grasp and move items between the customer stations andother transaction function devices, responsive to the inputs from thecustomers and the signals which control or result from operation of thedevices in performing transaction functions.

As shown in FIG. 23, a computer 30 of an exemplary embodiment is incommunication with one or more remote computers 44 and 46. The computer30 communicates with the remote computers through a network 48. Network48 may be any of a number of types of communication networks such as atelecommunications network, lease line, dial-up connection, wirelessnetwork, local area network, or wide area network such as the Internet.Computer 30 communicates messages with the network and the hostcomputers through a suitable communications interface 50.

In an exemplary embodiment, the computer 30 operates in accordance withits programming to operate an output device to prompt a customer toprovide identifying inputs to the machine. This may be done by acustomer through input of a card such as a debit card and a personalidentification number (PIN), or through other suitable identifyinginputs. The customer is also prompted responsive to operation of thecomputer 30 through an output device to input the type of transactionthey are requesting and the amount or character of the transactionrequested. Using this information, the computer operates to formulate atransaction request message which is routed to the host computer whichcan authorize the customer's requested transaction.

Upon receipt of the message or messages from the computer 30, the hostcomputer operates responsive to its programming and data that isaccessible in one or more associated data stores to determine if thecustomer is authorized to conduct the transaction. The host computerthen responds to the machine 10 through the network with a message whichincludes data representative of whether the transaction is authorized.In response to receiving a message that indicates that the transactionis authorized, the computer operates to cause the transaction functiondevices to carry out steps which are required to complete the requestedtransaction. The computer also operates to control the robotic itemhandling device to move items between the customer station and theappropriate transaction function devices. After carrying out thetransaction the computer 30 of the exemplary embodiment operates tocommunicate with the appropriate remote computer to confirm that thetransaction was successfully carried out. It should be understood thatthe sequence of transaction messages is exemplary and in otherembodiments other sequences and message types may be used.

As shown in FIG. 23, machine 10 also has in operative connection withthe computer 30 an operator interface 52. Operator interface 52 mayinclude appropriate input and output devices. A bank or other entityoperating the machine may use the operator interface to appropriatelyprogram the computer and load data into its associated data store.Operator interface 52 may in various embodiments be a generallypermanent part of the transaction machine. Alternatively operatorinterface 52 may be a hand-held or other portable type computer whichmay be connected to computer 30 for loading instructions and datatherein. In embodiments of the invention computer 30 may be programmedremotely through one or more other terminals which are connected tomachine 10 through the network 48.

Machine 10 may also include other types of transaction function devicesand/or interfaces which enable a customer to communicate with and/orexchange items with a live service provider. In some embodiments of theinvention, the transaction function devices may include devices such asa camera or other imaging device, and audio input devices such asmicrophones and audio output devices such as speakers, handsets or otherdevices which are capable of providing audio information to thecustomer. Upon the customer or the service provider providing anappropriate input, the customer may be placed in one-way or two-wayvideo and/or audio communication with a service provider locatedremotely from the machine. This may be done by a local hard wiredconnection when the service provider is located in proximity to themachine. Alternative embodiments of the invention may provide for thecomputer 30 to operate in connection with devices for producing images.This may include, for example, one or more cameras located at themachine and/or the service provider station, and transmitting image datathrough the network. Such data may be output in the form of images ondisplays enabling generally real time video conferencing between thecustomer and the service provider. Similarly audio information may betransmitted between the customer and the service provider enabling theservice provider and the customer to communicate in generally real time.Such communications may be useful in operations such as check cashing,loan application, bank check printing or other activities that may becarried out at the machine.

Alternative embodiments of the invention may also include the capabilityfor a customer at the machine to exchange items with a remote serviceprovider. This may be done by providing a pneumatic tube type conveyorsystem or other item transport device between the machine 10 and aremote service provider station. FIG. 24 shows a pneumatic tube conveyordelivery mechanism 43. In some embodiments the pneumatic transfer systemmay be of a type shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,146,057 which is owned by theassignee of the present invention and the disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference. Another example of such a system isshown in published International Patent Application PCT/US98/09178 thedisclosure of which Application is also incorporated herein by referenceas if fully written herein. The use of such pneumatic tube conveyorsystems may enable a customer to exchange items with a service provideror another transaction performing device to facilitate carrying outtransactions.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention also include in the data store 32associated with computer 30, or in another connected storage device,data or instructions corresponding to presentation materials which canbe presented to customers. Such presentation materials may include videoand/or audio type presentations that may be of interest to customersgenerally or to customers in particular situations. The computer 30 maybe programmed to operate to cause such materials to be displayed tocustomers operating the machine. This may be done for example duringwaiting times in the transactions such as when the machine is operatingto perform transaction authorization, to print or move materials or tocarry out transaction functions for other customers. Alternatively suchmaterials may be presented before or after transactions. Such materialsmay be directly targeted to the particular customer based on informationconcerning the customer's account, the particular transaction thecustomer wishes to conduct or other stored or derived information.Alternatively, a service provider may operate a connected switchingdevice or cause the computer to selectively output presentationmaterials to the customer that the service provider considersappropriate.

FIGS. 3 and 4 show an exemplary form of the robotic item handling device42 used in connection with machine 10. The robotic item handling devicegenerally is enabled to operate to grasp and move items between the userinterfaces at the customer stations and the transaction functiondevices. The exemplary form of the robotic device 42 enablesmanipulating items about three axes. Of course, in other embodimentsother types of additional handling devices may be used.

Device 42 includes a base portion 54. Base portion 54 of the describedembodiment is stationary. However, it should be understood that in otherembodiments the base portion may be moved on a slide mount or otheractuator device 55 such as is shown in FIG. 31, responsive to operationof the computer 30. This may provide for additional movementcapabilities for the device, such as between more widely, transverselydisposed customer stations or transaction function devices.

In the exemplary embodiment, device 42 further includes a head portion56. Head portion 56 is selectively rotatable relative to base portion 54about an axis 58. Servomotors or other suitable moving devices are usedin connection with the robotic item handling device for achieving thedesired movement in a controlled manner.

Head portion 56 is connected to an arm 60. Arm 60 includes a first armportion 62. Arm portion 62 is selectively rotatable relative to headportion 56 generally about an axis 64. A second arm portion 66 is insupporting connection with arm portion 62. Arm portion 66 is rotatablerelative to arm portion 62 generally about an axis 68.

Arm portion 66 is in supporting connection with a rotatable claw member70. Claw member 70 is rotatable relative to arm portion 66 about an axis72. Claw member 70 further includes a pair of relatively movable grippermembers which in the exemplary embodiment include a pair of opposedfingers 74. Gripper fingers 74 are selectively movable relative to oneanother to selectively grasp and release items.

As represented in FIGS. 1, 2, and 5 the robotic item handling device 42is enabled to move responsive to operation of the computer to move thegripper fingers throughout a range of positions relative to the interiorarea 14 of the machine 10. This includes engaging the gripper memberswith items delivered by a user into the tray or other openings or accessmechanisms, and placing such deposited items into appropriate engagementwith transaction function devices. Likewise the robotic item handlingdevice 42 is enabled to move items from one transaction function deviceto another within the interior of the housing, as well as to move itemsfrom a transaction function device to the delivery area of theappropriate tray or other opening or access mechanism which enables acustomer to access the particular item. As can be appreciated from FIG.1, the robotic item handling device is enabled to take items from anddeliver items to all three customer stations in this exemplaryembodiment. In addition, the machine 10 may operate under the control ofthe computer to have transactions ongoing with multiple customers atseveral customer stations simultaneously.

In the exemplary embodiment, the robotic item handling device 42operates under the control of the computer to move the tray mechanism 28between an extended position in which the delivery area 80 of the trayis accessible to a customer, and a retracted position in which thedelivery area of the tray is moved inside the housing. FIG. 9 shows atop plan view of the customer station 18 with the tray mechanism 28 inan extended position. Exemplary user interface 21 of customer station 18includes a shelf 76. A tray housing 78, which is part of the traymechanism 28, is shown in the outwardly extended position in FIG. 9. Inthis position, shelf 76 extends in generally surrounding relation of thetray housing. Shelf 76 provides a suitable work surface for customers onwhich to place items or to write information when conductingtransactions. Tray housing 78 includes the delivery area 80. Deliveryarea 80 is suitable for having items placed therein which are to bereceived from or delivered to one of the transaction function devices.This may include for example currency, passbooks, tickets, receipts,envelopes, in some cases cards, or other items which are moved betweenthe customer and the transaction function devices.

As shown in FIG. 11, in the exemplary embodiment tray housing 78 has inconnection therewith an actuating member 82 which extends incantilevered relation therewith. In the exemplary embodiment actuatingmember 82 comprises a semi-rigid resilient member which is suitable forimparting sufficient force to move the tray housing 78 between theextended position shown in FIG. 11 and the retracted position shown inFIG. 12. However, the characteristics of the actuating member 82 aresuch that if the tray 78 encounters an excessive resistance to movement,actuating member 82 will deform. The resilient nature of the preferredform of the actuating member 82 enables it to spring back into positionafter such deformation.

In the exemplary embodiment, the tray 78 is moved between the extendedand the retracted positions by the robotic item handling device 42. Whenthe delivery area 80 of the tray is to be retracted, at least one of thegripper fingers 74 engages the actuating member 82 adjacent a free end83 thereof, and pulls the tray housing 78 inward to the retractedposition shown in FIG. 12. Similarly when the delivery area 80 of thetray is to be extended at least one gripper finger 74 engages and pushesoutward on the actuating member 82 adjacent the free end until thedelivery area moves to the extended position. If a problem isencountered in moving the tray in either direction in this exemplaryembodiment, the actuating member deforms so that the gripper fingermoves past the actuating member without causing damage to either thetray mechanism or the gripper finger. This avoids problems in the eventthat the tray mechanism or another item being moved has become stuck.

As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 in an exemplary embodiment, a separatingmember 84 extends adjacent to, and in the exemplary embodiment, abovethe delivery area 80 of tray housing 78 when the tray is in theretracted position. In the exemplary embodiment separating member 84 isgenerally U-shaped in cross section. Member 84 includes a wall 85 havinga vertically extending slot or opening 86 therethrough with an open top87 as shown in FIG. 13. Opening 86 is sized for accepting gripperfingers 74 therein in generally close fitting relation.

As represented in FIG. 13 separating member 84 serves to provide greaterassurance that items which are to be deposited in the delivery area ofthe tray are separated from the gripper fingers. As represented in FIG.13 an item 88 is moved by the gripper fingers into an area above and inregistration with the holding area 80 of the retracted tray. The gripperfingers which are holding the item are moved by device 42 responsive tothe computer downward into the opening 86. The gripper fingers then moveapart which enables the item to move relative to the gripper fingers. Toassure that the item has separated, the gripper fingers 74 movegenerally horizontally and in an inward direction out of the opening 86.The wall portions 90 and 92 of wall 85 adjacent to the opening 86 engageitems that may continue to be carried by the gripper fingers as thegripper fingers retract in the direction of arrow R. This assures thatitems that are to be deposited into the tray fall into the delivery areaand are not retracted with the gripper fingers.

It should be understood that this arrangement is exemplary and otherarrangements may be used for separating items from their respectiveholding devices. For example, in some embodiments the wall whichperforms the equivalent function of wall 85 may be a wall bounding thedelivery area of the tray. In some embodiments separating mechanisms mayinclude for example, scrapers or brushes which engage an item andseparate it from a holding member. Alternatively, pneumatic flow,vibration, electrostatic charge or other similar techniques may be usedto assure separation of items from a holding member. The particulartechnique used will depend on the particular items being transported anddeposited in the housing area.

As represented in FIG. 12, tray housing 78 may include a trap door 94indicated in phantom, or a similar device in connection with the holdingarea thereof. Trap door 94 may be actuated by the gripper fingers orother suitable devices for purging the delivery area 80 of items heldtherein. This may be desirable for example when items have been providedto a customer and suitable sensors in or adjacent to the tray sensingthat the customer has failed to remove the items from the tray.Alternatively, the trap door 94 may be operated when it is desired tocapture from the customer an item that has been presented. Such amechanism enables removing such an item from the tray and storing theitem within the machine for later recovery or analysis. It should beunderstood however that trap door 94 is exemplary and in otherembodiments other suitable mechanisms may be used for this purpose.

While the exemplary form of the invention has been described inconnection with using a tray for moving items between the transactionfunction devices and a customer, other types of item communicationmechanisms may be used. For certain types of items it may be difficultfor the gripper fingers to remove the items from a tray. For such itemsit may be desirable for a user to deliver the items in a particularorientation to facilitate grasping the items with the gripper fingers(or other suitable grasping member) of the robotic item handling device.One such item which is made easier to handle through proper orientationis a deposit envelope. FIGS. 10 and 25 show a carrier member 96 fororienting a deposit envelope 95 or other item that is to be receivedfrom or delivered to a user by the machine. Carrier member 96 is sizedto extend in a vertically extending slot or opening 98 in a panel 97 ofthe machine housing. In the exemplary embodiment opening 98 is sized sothat a deposit envelope 95 is enabled to extend generally verticallytherein. This is achieved by having the base surface of carrier member96 sufficiently narrow so that the deposit envelope is constrained tosit generally upright within the slot 98. Convergent guides 99 extendwithin the interior area of the housing adjacent the slot 98.

In operation of the machine, the robotic item handling device 42 isenabled to grasp an envelope sitting generally upright in the slot 98 insupported connection with the carrier member 96. This may be done by thegripper fingers initially being spread apart and then moving in closeproximity to one another above the carrier member 96. Alternatively thegripper fingers may move adjacent to or above the carrier member so asto place the envelope in a particular orientation relative to the slot98 and in abutting relation with a selected one of the guides.Thereafter once the envelope is moved into a particular orientation thegripper fingers may move further adjacent and may grasp the envelope.The envelope may then be moved to a printer to label it with identifyingindicia and/or into an opening to a secure chest.

It should be understood that structures which operate in a mannersimilar to carrier member 96 and opening 98 may be used for passingother types of items between the machine and the user. For example, themachine may operate to provide a user with a deposit envelope by movingthe deposit envelope outward through the opening 98. The computer mayoperate the gripper fingers so as to align the envelope with the carriermember. In the exemplary embodiment the funnel-shaped passage providedby the convergent guides 99 facilitate the engagement of envelopes orother items therewith so that they are deposited on the carrier memberby the gripper fingers and are accessible to the customer through theslot 98. In addition other items passed between users and the machinesuch as passbooks, cards, coins, cards, or other items may be handledmore effectively when placed in a particular orientation by a user andwhen passed through the housing of the machine. Various forms ofsuitable carrier members and openings may be devised based on theparticular type of item to be transported and the gripper member type tobe used.

In an exemplary embodiment gripper fingers 74 are provided with aparticular cross-sectional configuration which facilitates the holding,straightening, and presentation of flexible sheet-like materials. Asshown in FIG. 18 the exemplary form of the gripper members has a crosssection in which an outer arcuate bounding surface 89 of one gripperfinger is enabled to move into generally opposed adjacent engagementwith an arcuate bounding surface 91 of the opposed gripper member. Asshown in FIG. 18 this enables imparting an arcuate curved contour incross section to sheets engaged with the gripper fingers such as sheet100 shown. It should be understood that the configuration of a grippingfinger shown is exemplary and in other embodiments other configurationsof gripper members may be used to achieve the cross sectional curvedcontour when sheets are engaged with the gripper members. For example,in other embodiments it may be necessary for only one gripper member tohave an arcuate bounding surface so as to achieve the desired contour ofitems engaged therewith. Alternatively or in addition, other embodimentsmay include a plurality of gripper members or a plurality of contactpoints for engaging items on a single gripper member so as to achieve anarcuate contour for flexible sheet-like items.

An advantage of the configuration of sheets when in engagement with theexemplary gripper members is represented in FIGS. 17 and 19-22. Inembodiments of the invention customers may need to provide or receiverelatively long and/or large sheets of material. This may occur forexample, when a customer is provided with an account statement or agraph showing performance of a customer's particular investments. Suchsheets may be in the range of letter-sized sheets. FIG. 17 represents aprinter 102 which prints such a sheet 104 for the customer responsive tothe computer 30. As represented in FIG. 17 the gripper members 74 engagethe sheet and remove it from the printer 102. In this exemplary sheethandling process the gripper members engage the sheet such that thesheet has the curved contour in the area of engagement with the grippermembers. In this area the sheet has a generally downward contourconfiguration like that of sheet 100 represented in FIG. 18.

A problem with large flexible sheets is that they tend to bend or droopas represented by a sheet 104 in FIG. 19 when held adjacent only oneside. In this condition it may be difficult to move such items with highprecision with the gripper fingers. The robotic item handling device mayfail to place the item in the proper position when such a sheet isdeformed due to its limp or bent character. To minimize this problem,the computer 30 of the exemplary embodiment operates the robotic itemhandling device to move sheet 104 from a position like that shown inFIG. 19 to a generally vertical position like that shown in FIG. 20.From this generally vertical position the gripper fingers are rotatedsuch that the sheet 104 is held generally horizontally and in thisexample, with a generally upright arcuate cross sectional configurationas represented in FIGS. 21 and 22. With this generally upright arcuateconfiguration imparted to the sheet, the sheet becomes more rigid. As aresult the sheet can be moved and more reliably placed accurately in anappropriate location. By executing this series of maneuvers forgenerally flexible sheets, more reliable placement of such sheets in adelivery area may be achieved.

FIGS. 14 and 15 show an alternative configuration usable to deliver andreceive items from a customer which is made more reliable by being ableto properly orient the sheet-like items. A customer station 106 shown inFIG. 14 includes a stationary tray or pocket 108. Pocket 108 is incommunication with an opening 110 in the housing of the machine. Therobotic item handling device 42, by straightening and maintaining thedesired configuration of one or more sheets, is enabled to extend suchsheets through the opening 110 and into a delivery area of pocket 108,from which the sheets may be taken by a customer. This is represented bya sheet 112 in FIG. 15.

It should be further understood that the orientation of pocket 108 andopening 110 may be sized so that a customer may also present items intothe pocket which can be grasped by the gripper fingers of a robotic itemhandling device. This may be achieved by having the opening 11sufficiently small so that the gripper fingers may reliably graspsheet-like or other items that are extended through the opening 110.Alternatively suitable aligning mechanisms such as gates or aligningmembers may be provided for aligning one or more sheet-like itemsextended through the opening 110 so that the gripper members mayreliably engage such items. Various approaches may be taken depending onthe particular types of items to be handled and exchanged with customersthrough the pocket and the type of gripper members used.

FIGS. 5, 6 and 16 show exemplary housing structures which may be used inconnection with machines of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 16,housing 12 may include a frame 114. Frame 114 includes a plurality offrame members 116 which are joined together in supporting connectionwith the frame to form the generally seven-sided structure of theexemplary housing 12. As shown in FIG. 5 a plurality of generallyrectangular panels 118 are mounted in supporting connection with theframe members 116 for purposes of enclosing the interior area. Asrepresented in FIGS. 5 and 6 in the exemplary embodiment two of thepanels 120 and 122 are enabled to be moved in supporting connection withthe frame relative to the housing. This may be accomplished through ahinge mounting or other movable mounting mechanisms. Panels 120 and 122are enabled to be swung outward as shown, a sufficient distance toenable authorized persons to gain access to the interior area 14 of thehousing. As will be appreciated, panels 120 and 122 are normally securedin a closed position on the housing by suitable locks schematicallyindicated 123 or other mechanisms that prevent unauthorized access.However in the exemplary embodiment, authorized personnel are enabled tomove the panels and swing them outward to enable servicing of theparticular components within the interior area of the machine.

As can be appreciated from the foregoing description, some embodimentsof the present invention enable a plurality of transaction functiondevices to be included within the interior area of the housing. Thenumber and variety of such transaction function devices may besubstantially greater than could be conventionally housed within asingle conventional ATM. This enables customers operating the machine tocarry out more types of transactions.

Embodiments of the invention may also achieve enhanced reliability andlonger intervals between servicing compared to conventional automatedtransaction machines. This is because sufficient room may be availablewithin the interior area of the housing for two or more of the same typeof transaction function device. For example if duplicate currencydispensers are included within the housing, the programming of thecomputer may be operative so that a malfunction or depletion of aprimary one of the dispensers will not adversely impact the ability ofthe machine to carry out transactions. The computer may operate afallback device which can perform the same transaction function to carryout the particular type of transaction that has been requested by thecustomer. Similarly, printers, dispensers, depositories and otherdevices with redundant capabilities relative to other devices in themachine may be provided. Such capabilities may reduce the risk that acustomer will find the machine to be unavailable. The computer 30 usedin connection with embodiments that include this capability isprogrammed so that when signals indicate that a particular device is notoperating properly, operation of the backup transaction function deviceis initiated. In such circumstances the computer also adjusts itsprogramming so that the robotic item handling device takes or receivesitems from the fallback device.

Other devices with overlapping functionality may be used alternativelyto carry out a particular transaction function in the same way. Forexample an exemplary banking machine may include both a note dispenserand a coin dispenser. If the note dispenser becomes inoperative afterrunning out of ten dollar bills, the coin dispenser may be used todispense dollar coins until the ten dollar bills are replenished.

FIG. 27 shows a schematic diagram of a programming architecture that isoperative to achieve such exemplary fallback functionality. Here one ormore computers in an ATM 700 include a terminal director 710 comprisedof a plurality of ATM software objects 712. In the exemplary embodimentthe ATM objects 712 correspond to Java® beans; however, in alternativeexemplary embodiments other types of objects and classes may be usedthat are appropriate for the hardware and application software platformof the ATM including Active X™ and COMM objects.

In addition to the methods of the ATM objects, each ATM object furtherincludes a plurality of methods or functions related to the capabilitiesof underlying transaction function devices 724 and 726. These methodsinclude an is-present method 714, a use rule method 716, and a selecttype method 718. The select type method 718 is operative to specifywhich type of device the ATM object is associated therewith. Forexample, a printer object is operative to communicate with both areceipt printer 724 and statement printer 726 such as are shown in theinterior area of the enclosure in FIG. 31. The select type method 718can be used to specify that a particular instance of the printer objectcorresponds to a receipt printer.

The is-present method 714 is operative to determine if the desired typeof device is present in the ATM. This method enables a terminal softwareapplication to be self configuring with respect to different types oftransactions. For example, if an is-present method 714 returns anegative value for a statement printer, the terminal functionality thatcorresponds to printing statements can be hidden from the users of theATM. In this manner, the exemplary ATM objects are operative todetermine the capabilities of the ATM objects and configure theoperation of the ATM responsive to the determined capabilities.

In alternative embodiments of the present invention, methods may be usedwhich include arguments for different types of features of the desireddevice or service. For example the is-present method or anothercapabilities method of a printer object could be passed an argument thatcorresponds to color printing. If a printer with colored inks ispresent, the printer object can be configured to print multicoloredindicia. These exemplary methods enable a single generic type of ATMobject such as printer object, to support a plurality of specializeddevices, such as a receipt printer, statement printer, thermal receiptprinter, color printer, or any other printer device.

The use rule method 716 is operative to specify a set of rules fordetermining which device an ATM object will initially use, and whichdevice will be used when the current or default device is inoperative.The exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes at least onedata store 720 which is operative to store a plurality of such rulessets 721 for the devices in the banking machine. For example the datastore may include a default set of rules of a card reader object thatspecifies that if there is only one card reader device, a card readerobject will be automatically connected thereto. If there is more thanone printer device, a rule set can be created and used by a printerobject that specifies that a receipt printer device is the defaultprinter which is the primary device to be used for printing receipts,and a statement printer device is a fallback printer in cases where thereceipt printer device is unavailable such as due to a malfunction.

In the exemplary embodiment, rule sets and their associated devices 724can be created and saved in the data store 720 by a configurationprogram 722 in operative connection with the data store 720. Such aconfiguration program 722 is also operative to store data representativeof which devices are currently installed in the ATM. The configurationprogram is further operative to store in the data store 720 specificfeatures that are associated with each device. The results of theis-present method 714 can be determined by querying the data store 720for the corresponding type of device and/or feature of the device.

In an alternative embodiment, where individual devices include selfconfiguration features, such as Sun Microsystems JINI™ and Microsoft®Universal Plug and Play™, individual devices 724 themselves may beoperative to upload details of their features and/or correspondingservice proxies to the data store 720.

The exemplary ATM 700 further includes a device interface layer 728. Theexemplary device interface layer 728 may be comprised of a plurality ofODS (Open Device Services). In addition the device interface layer 728may be comprised of one or more device API layers such as a J/XFS(Java/eXtensions for Financial Services) kernel or a WOSA/XFS (WindowsOpen Service Architecture/eXtensions for Financial Services) manager.These components and layers of the device interface layer 728 areoperative to provide an interface between the ATM objects 712 andcorresponding hardware devices 724 and 726.

In one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the ODS componentsand/or the XFS components are operatively programmed to provide aninterface between the ATM objects 712 and the data store 720 fordetermining which devices and features of devices are present in theATM. The device interface layer 728 is further operative to processrules in the data store 720 for determining defaults or primary devicesand the order of fallback devices for performing a particulartransaction function. Responsive to the information associated withrules, present devices, and device capabilities stored in the data store720, the device interface layer 728 is operative to have each ATM object712 communicate with a device 724 that includes the appropriatecapabilities required by the ATM object.

FIG. 28 shows an exemplary embodiment of an ATM 740 that includes adevice interface layer comprised of an enhanced J/XFS kernel 742. TheJ/XFS kernel 742 includes a device type manager 744. The device typemanager 744 is operative to communicate with a plurality of ATM objects746 and create corresponding instances of device control objects 750responsive to the rule sets selected by the ATM object. The rule setsare retrieved from a data store 748 in operative connection with thedevice type manager. The device controls 750 are operative to controlthe operation of ATM devices 754 through communication with deviceservices 756 (i.e. device drivers) according to the J/XFS specification.The device controls 750 generally correspond to device services.Messages between the device type manager 744 and the device controls 750are queued by device command servers 752 which generally correspond tothe device controls 750.

The device type manager 744 routes messages to the correct devicecommand server 752 responsive to the rule sets in the data store 748.The device type manager 744 is further responsive to a rule set toswitch to the next appropriate device command server 752 if the healthof one of the current devices 754 becomes inoperative.

FIG. 29 shows another exemplary embodiment of software architecture thatmay be used in embodiments of the present invention. Here the ATMobjects 770 are operative to control the operation of devices 772through communication with ODS components 774. ODS components 774 aredesigned to abstract the differences between inconsistent vendorimplementations of service provider interfaces 778 (i.e. device drivers)beneath a consistent and uniform interface. In this described exemplaryembodiment the ODS components 774 control the operation of the devices772 through communication with a WOSA/XFS layer 776. The WOSA/XFS layer776 in turn communicates with the devices 772 through the serviceprovider interfaces 778. Service provider interfaces are typicallyprovided by the supplier of the particular hardware device to facilitateuse in an open software environment. In this described exemplaryembodiment the ODS layer 773 has been enhanced to include the previouslydescribed functionality of the device interface layer. Thus theexemplary ODS components 774 are operative to communicate with the datastore 779 to provide capability information to the ATM objects 770. TheODS components 774 are also operative to process rules sets fordetermining which service provider interfaces and devices are to be usedinitially and which are to be used as fallback devices when the defaultdevices become inoperative.

FIG. 30 shows another exemplary embodiment of software architecture thatmay be used in embodiments of the present invention. Here the devicecontrols 760 of the J/XFS layer 761 are operative to control theoperation of devices 762 through communication with ODS components 764.As discussed previously the ODS components 764 control the operation ofthe devices 762 through communication with a WOSA/XFS manager 766. TheWOSA/XFS manager communicates with the devices 762 through the vendorprovided service provider interfaces 768. For ODS components that arecomprised of C, C++, COMM, or other non-Java components, the presentexemplary embodiment encompasses placing a JNI (Java Native Interface)wrapper around the ODS components 764 to form J/XFS compatible deviceservices 765. The device services 765 provide an interface for the Javabased J/XFS layer to communicate with the ODS components 764 and theWindows® based WOSA/XFS manager 766.

Computer software used in operating the automated banking machines ofembodiments of the present invention and connected computers may beloaded from articles of various types into the respective computers.Such computer software may be included on and loaded from one or morearticles such as diskettes or compact disks. Such software may also beincluded on articles such as hard drives, tapes or read-only memorydevices. Other articles which include data representative of theinstructions for operating computers in the manner described herein aresuitable for use in achieving operation of automated banking machinesand systems in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

A further advantage of exemplary embodiments of the invention is thatsignificantly larger amounts of supplies may be contained within thebanking machine housing. Such supplies may include large rolls of paper,large magazines of ticket stock, large supplies of notes, or other itemsor media needed to operate the machine. This further increases the timethat the machine may be operated without servicing. Alternativeembodiments of the invention may also be programmed such that therobotic item handling device is enabled to load selected types of mediaor items from storage areas in the housing into devices when suchdevices approach or reach the point of depletion.

As previously discussed, the exemplary embodiment of the inventionenables the transaction function devices to be arranged in variouslocations within the interior area of the housing. Such devices may bemounted in supporting connection with floor surfaces or wall surfaces.Such devices may also be arranged horizontally and vertically onshelves, in racks and/or mounted on top of other devices. Thetransaction capabilities of the machine may also be changed by adding orremoving transaction function devices from the interior of the housing.As a result, changing transaction capabilities is greatly simplifiedcompared to conventional ATMs.

As previously discussed, in some embodiments of the invention sometransaction function devices may have the capability of automaticallyreconfiguring the programming of the system so as to enable theoperation of such new devices in coordination with existing devices.This may be done for example in the manner disclosed in InternationalPublication No. WO 0049547 published Aug. 24, 2000 which is owned by theassignee of the present invention, the disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference as if fully rewritten herein. Inexemplary embodiments of such systems, the automated banking machine iscomprised of a plurality of transaction services. Such transactionservices are collections of software or hardware and software that havethe properties of objects. Such transaction services have the capabilityof automatically configuring and communicating through object methodcalls when the transaction services are placed in operative connectionwith a controller in the machine and/or with one another. Examples ofsoftware systems which provide such capabilities include SunMicrosystems JINI™ and Microsoft Universal Plug and Play™.

In an exemplary embodiment a transaction service includes a hardwaretransaction function device such as a printer 127 shown in FIG. 31. Theprinter, because it is a part of a transaction service, includes inoperative connection therewith at least one processor schematicallyindicated 125. The processor is in operative connection with a datastore schematically indicated 129. The data store maintains in memorytherein a software application such as a Sun JINI™ application aspreviously discussed which enables the printer 127 to automatically beconfigured and integrated into a banking machine system upon beingoperatively connected thereto. The transaction service which includesthe hardware and software associated with the transaction functiondevice first carries out the processes of discover and join as describedin the manner of the incorporated disclosure. Then once the transactionservice has joined as part of the system, the transaction serviceincluding the transaction function device will run in coordination withthe other devices. In order to run the transaction function device theassociated transaction service will acquire from a lookup service in themachine and download, a service proxy that will run in the JAVA virtualmachine of the calling service. Thus in the exemplary JINI architecture,the software components including the software application as well astransaction function devices, are each associated with a respectivetransaction service. Each service has access to the service proxies ofthe transaction services that it communicates with. This includes thetransaction service which includes a software application which operatesdevices in the machine. Thus in the exemplary embodiment thecapabilities of the automated banking machine may be changed byconnecting and removing transaction services and their associatedtransaction function devices from the machine.

As can be appreciated in the exemplary embodiment, in order for therobotic item handling device 42 to accurately move items between thedelivery areas and the transaction function devices, the data stored inconnection with the system must include information concerning thephysical locations of the respective transaction function devices. Insome embodiments this may be programmed into the system by using inputdevices and references to a particular imposed coordinate system.Alternatively, locations for transaction function devices may beprogrammed by moving robotic item handling devices in a manuallycontrolled mode to those locations on the transaction function devicesat which the gripper fingers are required to engage items to be handledin the course of transactions. Once the gripper fingers have beenmanually moved to the proper positions, data corresponding to thesepositions may be stored in one or more data stores to enable the machineto engage and release transaction items at the appropriate locations.

In other alternative embodiments robotic item handling device 42 mayhave one or more sensors in operative connection therewith. Such sensorsare represented schematically in FIG. 31 by a sensor 107. Sensor 107 maybe one or more of a plurality of different types of sensors depending onthe requirements of the system. The one or more sensors 107 communicatewith or sense a location indicator and a device type identifyingindicator associated with each transaction function device. In FIG. 31the location indicator associated with printer 127 is indicated 131 andthe device type identifying indicator is indicated 133. It should beunderstood that although in the exemplary embodiment the indicators arerepresented as separate items, in some embodiments such indicators maybe combined into a single indicator.

In an exemplary embodiment the location indicator is operative toindicate to the one or more sensors 107, the particular location ororientation of the particular transaction function device. Such locationindicators may include one or more reflective, infrared, laser or othersuitable indicator, that is capable of being sensed, and which whensensed by the one or more sensors 107, can be used by the controller toaccurately guide the gripper fingers on device 42 to engage a particulartransaction item or portion thereof that is required to be received fromor delivered to a particular transaction function device.

The device type identifying indicators in the exemplary embodiment areread by the one or more sensors in order to identify a particulartransaction function device, or in some embodiments the particular typeof transaction function device. In exemplary embodiments of theinvention, the device type identifying indicators may include infraredremitters, machine readable indicia, R/F backscatter type emitters orother indicators which are capable of being read so as to indicate theparticular type of device and/or characteristics of the device, so thatthe sensors can verify the particular device from among the plurality oftransaction function devices which make up the machine.

In an exemplary embodiment the controller may operate such that the oneor more sensors 107 read the location indicators and device typeidentifying indicators for all the transaction function devices in themachine. The information concerning each of the transaction functiondevices is correlated through operation of the controller with thesoftware architecture information concerning the numbers and types ofdevices connected in the machine. A controller then operates the roboticitem handling device 42 in accordance with the stored information so asto move items between the delivery area and the transaction functiondevices, as well as between transaction function devices. In otherembodiments, the controller may operate so that the identifyinginformation and/or location information is verified with each use of atransaction function device or with each transaction. In otheralternative embodiments the controller may be operative upon eachtransaction to scan location and/or identification information so as tolocate a particular transaction function device including any newlyadded device, with each transaction. As can be appreciated, variousapproaches to coordinating the operation of the one or more robotic itemhandling devices with the transaction function devices in the machinemay be used in embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 7 and 8 schematically represent a further alternative embodimentof an automated banking machine of the present invention. In thisembodiment a machine 124 is provided which is generally similar tomachine 10. Machine 124 includes a housing 126 which generally surroundsan interior area 128 of the machine. Interior area 128 includes arobotic item handling device similar to that previously discussed.

Unlike the previously described embodiment, machine 124 includes only alimited number of transaction function devices within the interior area128. In this embodiment interior area 128 is bounded by a rear wallsurface 132. Wall surface 132 may include a surface of a secure room orenclosure 134. Secure enclosure 134 may be a concrete, steel or othersecure chest which only authorized personnel are enabled to access.Secure enclosure 134 may include a plurality of transaction functiondevices such as sheet dispensers, depositories, ticket printers andother devices. Secure enclosure 134 may also include one or morecomputers 136 which are used to operate the machine. In some embodimentssecure enclosure 134 may be built into a wall such as wall 138. Wall 138could be an exterior or interior building wall. Alternatively, secureenclosure 134 may be free standing.

As shown in FIG. 8 wall 132 of secure enclosure 134 includes a pluralityof access openings or access mechanisms schematically represented 140,142, 144, 146, 148, 150 and 153. Such openings and access mechanismsprovide passages and transports through which items such as sheets,depository envelopes, tickets and other items may be passed between theinterior of the secure enclosure 134 and the interior area 128 ofhousing 126.

In operation of machine 124 the robotic item handling device 130operates to move items between the delivery areas of the customerstations and the openings and access mechanisms positioned on wall 132.Because secure enclosure 134 provides enhanced protection it becomesmore difficult for unauthorized persons to gain access to valuabledocuments, currency, ticket stock or other items which may be dispensedor received by the machine. Of course it should be understood thatvarious allocations of transaction function devices may be made betweenthe secure enclosure and the interior of the housing. In otherembodiments the secure enclosure may be positioned within the interiorarea of the housing in the manner of the smaller secure compartments andchests discussed in connection with the previously described embodiment.For example and without limitation, robotic item handling devices may bepositioned on top of or adjacent to the access mechanisms and openingsso as to enable the proper movement of items into and out of a securechest. Numerous alternative embodiments may be produced within the scopeof the present invention.

In operation of the embodiment of the invention shown in connection withFIG. 1, the transaction function devices 34 are operatively connected tothe computer 30 through appropriate interfaces. Likewise the roboticitem handling device is connected to the computer through an appropriateinterface. Sensors are also positioned adjacent to certain of thetransaction function devices including on the gripper members, trays andadjacent other devices to monitor the operation thereof. The outputsfrom the sensors are routed through appropriate interfaces to thecomputer as well.

The computer is programmed to carry out various transactions which maybe requested by users. In the exemplary configurations previouslydiscussed, the programming includes the information necessary for therobotic item handling device to locate areas on the transaction functiondevices from which items are to be taken and/or into which items are tobe deposited. The programming also includes the data necessary for therobotic item handling device to move to locations for the traymechanisms and other devices used to input and deliver items at thecustomer station.

In the exemplary embodiment the programming of computer 30 also includesthe information necessary for the computer to communicate with remotecomputers for purposes of authorizing transactions and for makingappropriate additions and deductions from accounts. The programmingfurther includes the data necessary to provide instructions and promptsfrom the output devices at the customer stations. The capability torecognize the various input instructions from users is also programmedinto the machine.

Additional information stored in the data store may include presentationmaterials which are to be presented to customers, the logic associatedwith selecting such presentations and the timing during the carrying outof transactions at which presentations are to be presented. Of courseother information and logic may be programmed in connection with thecomputer 30 depending on the requirements of the particular system.

An exemplary form of the system is enabled to carry out a plurality ofactions by the transaction function devices simultaneously. This may beaccomplished in a manner described in published InternationalApplication No. PCT/US98/24671, and/or in U.S. Pat. No. 6,131,809 thedisclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein.

In an exemplary transaction, a customer approaching the machine 10identifies themself or their account to the machine. This is done in theexemplary embodiment by the user presenting a magnetic stripe card tothe card reader 24 and thereafter providing an input of a PIN. The PINmay be input in response to a display or visual representation of akeypad on the touch screen or through the fixed keypad, keyboard orother input device. Responsive to prompts from output devices caused byoperation of the computer, the customer also provides inputs to select atype of transaction and an amount, a quantity or other information whichis indicative of the value involved in the transaction.

Responsive to the inputs provided by the customer, the computer operatesto determine if the transaction is authorized. For purposes of thisexample it will be presumed that the customer has requested a withdrawalof cash from an account using a debit card. The computer 30 communicateswith an appropriate host computer which is in communication with a datastore containing information concerning the account identified on thecustomer's card. If the customer has the funds available and the cardhas not been made inoperative because it has been reported stolen orotherwise disabled, the host computer returns an authorization messageto the machine 10 indicating that the transaction is authorized. If forsome reason the transaction is not authorized, the return messageincludes data representative of this fact.

If the transaction is not authorized the computer 30 operates inaccordance with its programming to advise the customer through an outputdevice that the transaction cannot be carried out. The computer thenoperates to return the card to the customer and to close thetransaction.

If the transaction requested by the customer is authorized the computeroperates responsive to the authorization message to cause a currencydispenser within the housing to dispense the number of notescorresponding to the amount of funds requested by the customer. Thecomputer further operates responsive to appropriate sensors or datastored in memory to determine whether the tray 78 associated with thetray mechanism 28 is in the retracted position. If the tray is notretracted, the computer operates the robotic item handling device 42 tomove the tray to the retracted position.

The computer next operates to cause the gripper fingers 74 to move toengage the notes dispensed by the note dispensing device. Sensorsassociated with the gripper fingers sense that the gripper fingers haveengaged the dispensed notes. These may include contact sensors, opticalsensors or other suitable sensors which are in operative connection withthe controller. The computer next operates to cause the robotic itemhandling device to move the notes over the delivery area 80 of theretracted tray. The gripper fingers then move downward into the opening86 in the separating member 84 such that the notes are positioned on theoutboard side of the separating member. The computer next operates toseparate the gripper fingers 74 and to move the gripper fingers in aninboard direction in the opening 86. This causes the notes to bedisengaged from the gripper fingers and to be deposited in the deliveryarea of the tray 78.

The computer operates to cause a receipt printer to print a receipt forthe transaction. The computer causes the robotic item handling device tomove the gripper fingers to engage the receipt and to move the receiptinto the delivery area of the tray 78 in a manner similar to that donefor the notes. The computer then causes the gripper fingers to move thetray 78 outward by moving the actuating member 82. Sensors positioned inor adjacent to the tray sense that the tray has moved outward and whenthe customer has removed the notes and receipt therefrom.

The computer then operates to provide a prompt to the customer toprovide an input indicative of whether the customer wishes to conductanother transaction. Assuming that the customer provides an inputdeclining a further transaction, the computer then operates to close thesession. This is done by returning the customer's card from the cardreader. In addition the computer operates to send a confirmation messageto the host computer that authorized the transaction, to confirm thatthe requested transaction was successfully carried out. In this way thehost computer is informed that it is appropriate to debit the customer'saccount for the funds the customer requested.

The computer 30 may also operate to provide the customer withpromotional or other materials at appropriate times before, during orafter the transaction. It should also be understood that the computermay operate at various times during the transaction to capture images ofthe customer through a camera device and to store such image data in alocal or remote data store. This provides the capability of verifyingthe identity of the person who conducted the transaction should there bean issue at a later time. Such image data may be captured locally andmade available to authorized persons either at the machine or remotelythrough a network connection. This may be done in embodiments of theinvention through use of an AccuTrack™ System which is commerciallyavailable from Diebold, Incorporated.

If during the course of performing a transaction for a customer at onecustomer station another customer initiates a transaction at anothercustomer station, the machine of the exemplary embodiment operates tocarry out both transactions concurrently. The computer operates thetransaction function devices and the robotic item handling device tomove items appropriately between each customer and the transactionfunction devices. In the operation of the computer, the computerresolves particular results and instructions which are queued, sequencedor otherwise arranged so that the next step in each transaction iscarried out at the earliest available opportunity. In this way, multiplecustomers are serviced by the single machine.

As previously discussed, embodiments of the invention may also initiatetwo-way audio and video conferencing between customers and serviceproviders. This may be done by a customer at one customer station whileother customers are carrying out transactions which do not include theinvolvement of a human service provider. Similarly embodiments of theinvention may include a pneumatic tube conveyor type device throughwhich a customer may exchange items with a human service provider orother device performing system. In such embodiments the pneumatic tubeconveyor has an appropriate receiving and delivery device within theinterior of the housing of the machine such as mechanism 43 shown inFIG. 24. The pneumatic device may move items in a carrier that is movedbetween the housing and a service provider station. The computer mayoperate the robotic device to remove items from the pneumatic carrierand present them to the customer as well as to receive items from thecustomer and place them in the carrier. Again as previously describedone or more customers at customer stations may be carrying outtransactions involving exchanges of physical items with a human serviceprovider while other customers are carrying out totally automatedtransactions. As can be appreciated numerous variations and combinationsof transactions may be carried out using embodiments of the invention.

While the exemplary embodiment has been described in connection with anautomated banking machine which carries out banking type transactions,the principles of the invention are equally applicable to other types oftransactions and systems. For example embodiments of the invention maybe used in connection with dispensing pharmaceuticals to authorizedusers. Such users may include doctors, nurses or other medicalprofessionals, or alternatively patients who obtain and pay forprescribed medications through a self service terminal. The housing mayinclude a plurality of medical items therein along with appropriatedispensers and labeling devices. The robotic item handling device may beoperated in accordance with the programming of one or more associatedcomputers to achieve the dispense of medical items, label them anddeliver them to the user. In cases where the machine is operated by amedical professional, inputs provided identify the user as authorized tooperate the machine and indicate the appropriate patient or departmentto whom the medical items may be charged. In cases where the terminal isoperated as a self service dispenser the patient may use a credit card,debit card or other device to identify themselves or their accounts tothe machine.

Machines of the present invention may also find application in fieldssuch as gaming, check cashing, bill payment and numerous othersituations. Forms of the invention may include housings or vestibules ofvarying sizes. Embodiments of the invention may also be configured to bepositioned within the interior of the building or in an outdoorenvironment. Embodiments of the invention may further include userinterfaces for either walk-up or drive-up applications. As can beappreciated, embodiments of the invention may include user interfaces atvarious heights both in drive-up and walk-up applications. Such userinterfaces in a walk-up environment may include a user interfacesuitable for persons in wheelchairs and persons of varying heights.Likewise in a drive-up application, interfaces may be provided forpersons conducting transactions from low sports cars to taller trucksand sport utility vehicles. As the same transaction function devicesgenerally fulfill the transaction requests at any of the userinterfaces, providing such multiple interfaces does not present asignificant additional cost as it may in situations where multipletransaction machines are provided. Numerous other and additionaladvantages of the present invention will be apparent to those havingskill in the art.

For example, FIG. 32 shows a front plan view of a further exemplaryautomated banking machine indicated 154. Machine 154 is configured for adrive-up type application. However, the principles of this embodimentmay be applied to other configurations of automated banking machines aswell. Machine 154 includes three user interfaces 156, 158, and 160. Theuser interfaces are vertically disposed from one another and verticallyaligned on a fascia panel 162.

In this exemplary embodiment the user interfaces are the same and onlyuser interface 160 will be described. User interface 160 includes inputand output devices which perform functions similar to those previouslydiscussed in connection with other embodiments. In this exemplaryautomated banking machine the output devices include a display screen164. Display screen 164 may be a multi-character line LCD display, LCDpanel display, CRT display, or other output device. User interface 160also includes a keypad 166. In the exemplary embodiment keypad 166includes alphanumeric keys such as those found on a touch tone phone aswell as function keys through which a user is enabled to provide inputs.

User interface 160 further includes a card slot 168. In this exemplaryembodiment card slot 168 is sized for accepting a standard sized cardsuch as a credit card or debit card, or alternatively in someembodiments a smart card. User interface 160 also includes a verticallyextending media slot 170. Media slot 170 in some environments may besimilar to slot 98 previously discussed. User interface 160 alsoincludes a tray mechanism 171. Tray mechanism 171 may be like traymechanisms previously discussed which are enabled to move so that adelivery area is selectively positioned either within the housing oroutside of the housing so that its contents may be accessed by a user.Of course it should be understood that these components of each userinterface are exemplary and in other embodiments other or additionalcomponents may be used.

In the operation of machine 154 a user actuating the machine approachesin a vehicle. The vehicle may be of various heights. Such vehicleheights may make different interfaces more convenient for use dependingon which is most closely positioned in adjacent relation with thedriver's window. In operating the machine a user inserts their card intothe card slot of the user interface that they wish to use. Insertion ofthe card through the card slot is sensed by appropriate sensors adjacentthereto.

In response to sensing a card inserted through a corresponding one ofthe card slots, the controller is operative to carry out the transactionthrough the particular user interface selected by the customer. In anexemplary embodiment the robotic handling device is operative to gripthe card and take it from the card slot. The card is then passed througha single card reading transaction function device that is positioned inthe machine. It should be understood that although the exemplaryembodiment enables the use of a single card reader within the enclosure,other embodiments may include separate card readers accessible throughthe panel 162. These may include for example, swipe type readers or diptype card readers.

The controller then operates to carry out the transaction by presentingappropriate messages on the display of the user interface selected andreceiving inputs through the corresponding keypad or other inputdevices. Transaction items are exchanged through the tray mechanismcorresponding to the user interface selected. In this way the automatedbanking machine 154 is enabled to readily accommodate carrying outtransactions for users in vehicles which position users at variousheights with respect to the machine.

It should be understood that although the exemplary machine 158 showsuser interfaces vertically aligned and a machine developed for adrive-up application, the principles of this embodiment may be appliedto other types of machines. This includes kiosk type environments whereuser interfaces may be disposed at various heights while beinghorizontally disposed from one another. In this way persons inwheelchairs or persons having widely varying heights may be more readilyenabled to carry out transactions.

Thus the automated banking machine apparatus and system of the presentinvention achieve one or more of the above stated objectives, eliminatethe difficulties encountered in the use of prior devices and systems,solve problems and attain one or more of the desirable results describedherein.

In the foregoing description certain terms have been used for brevity,clarity and understanding, however no unnecessary limitations are to beimplied therefrom because such terms are used for descriptive purposesand are intended to be broadly construed. Moreover the descriptions andillustrations herein are by way of examples and the invention is notlimited to the details shown and described.

In the following claims, any feature described as a means of orperforming a function shall be construed as encompassing any means knownto those skilled in the art to be capable of performing the recitedfunction, and shall not be deemed limited to the particular featuresshown herein or mere equivalents thereof.

Having described the features, discoveries and principles of theinvention, the manner in which it is constructed and operated and theadvantages and useful results attained; the new and useful structures,devices, elements, arrangements, parts, combinations, systems,equipment, operations, methods and relationships are set forth in theappended claims.

1. A system comprising: a building, wherein the building comprises aninterior area, a service provider (SP) station located inside of thebuilding, wherein the SP station is enabled to be operated by a serviceprovider providing a transaction, wherein the SP station includes atleast one SP station audio device, wherein the SP station includes atleast one SP station video display device, wherein the SP stationincludes at least one SP camera device, wherein the SP station includesat least one computer, a transport arrangement located inside of thebuilding, wherein the transport arrangement is in operative connectionwith the SP station, wherein the transport arrangement includes at leastone pneumatic tube, wherein the at least one pneumatic tube enables amovable carrier to be pneumatically moved to and from the SP station,wherein a service provider at the SP station can access a movablecarrier received at the SP station, a plurality of customer stationslocated within the interior area, wherein each customer station includesa customer interface enabled to be operated by a customer requesting atransaction, wherein each customer interface includes both a magneticindicia card reader device and a biometric reading device, wherein eachof the card reader device and the biometric reading device are operativeto read customer identifying input, wherein the at least one computer isoperative to compare read customer identifying data,  wherein a customeris authorized to carry out a transaction responsive to a positivecomparison of read customer identity data, wherein each customerinterface enables a customer thereat to exchange items with a serviceprovider located at the SP station via the at least one pneumatic tube,wherein each customer station is in operative connection with the SPstation enabling generally real time audio and video communicationbetween a customer located at a customer station and a service providerlocated at the SP station, wherein each customer station includes acustomer audio device in operative connection with the at least one SPstation audio device enabling real time audio communication between theSP station and each customer station, wherein each customer stationincludes a camera device in operative connection with the at least oneSP station video display device enabling real time viewing of a customerby service provider located at the SP station, wherein each customerstation includes a customer video display device in operative connectionwith the at least one SP camera device enabling real time viewing of aservice provider located at the SP station by a customer, wherein the SPstation includes a customer station selector device that enables aservice provider to communicate with a customer at a selected customerstation, a robotic handling device located inside of the building,wherein the robotic handling device includes a gripper device, whereinthe gripper device is operative to grip at least one item, wherein therobotic handling device is operative to move a gripped item between eachcustomer station and the at least one pneumatic tube.
 2. The systemaccording to claim 1 wherein each customer interface includes both amagnetic indicia card reader device and a biometric reading device,wherein each of the card reader device and the biometric reading deviceare operative to read customer identifying information provided by acustomer at a customer interface, wherein a computer at the SP stationis operative to compare read customer identifying information, andwherein a customer is authorized to carry out a transaction responsiveto a positive computer comparison of read customer identity information.3. The system according to claim 2 and further comprising a robotichandling device located inside of the building, wherein the robotichandling device includes a gripper device, wherein the gripper device isoperative to grip at least one item, wherein the robotic handling deviceis operative to move a gripped item between each customer interface andthe at least one pneumatic tube.
 4. A system comprising: a building,wherein the building comprises an interior area, a service provider (SP)station located inside of the building, wherein the SP station isenabled to be operated by a service provider providing a transaction,wherein the SP station includes at least one SP station audio device,wherein the SP station includes at least one SP station video displaydevice, a transport arrangement located inside of the building, whereinthe transport arrangement is in operative connection with the SPstation, wherein the transport arrangement includes at least onepneumatic tube, wherein the at least one pneumatic tube enables amovable carrier to be pneumatically moved to and from the SP station,wherein the SP station enables a service provider to access a movablecarrier received at the SP station, a plurality of customer stationslocated within the interior area, wherein each customer station includesa customer interface enabled to be operated by a customer requesting atransaction, wherein customer identifying information provided by acustomer at a customer interface is enabled to be received and comparedat the SP station, wherein a customer is allowed to carry out atransaction responsive to a positive comparison result, wherein eachcustomer interface enables a customer thereat to exchange items with aservice provider located at the SP station via the at least onepneumatic tube, wherein each customer station includes a customer audiodevice in operative connection with the at least one SP station audiodevice enabling a service provider located at the SP station and acustomer to audibly communicate in generally real time, wherein eachcustomer station includes a camera device in operative connection withthe at least one SP station video display device enabling a serviceprovider located at the SP station to view a customer in generally realtime, wherein the SP station includes a customer station selector devicethat enables a service provider to selectively communicate with acustomer at a customer station.
 5. The system according to claim 4 andfurther comprising a robotic handling device located inside of thebuilding, wherein the robotic handling device includes a gripper device,wherein the gripper device is operative to grip at least one item,wherein the robotic handling device is operative to move a gripped itembetween each customer interface and the at least one pneumatic tube. 6.The system according to claim 5 and further comprising an enclosurelocated inside of the building, wherein each customer interface isdisposed on the enclosure.
 7. The system according to claim 6 whereinthe robotic handling device is located inside of the enclosure.
 8. Thesystem according to claim 7 and further comprising a controller and aplurality of transaction function devices within the enclosure, whereinthe plurality of transaction function devices include a cash dispenserdevice, wherein each customer station enables a customer thereat torequest a cash withdrawal transaction, and wherein during a cashwithdrawal transaction the controller is able to cause the robotichandling device to grip and move cash dispensed from the cash dispenserdevice.
 9. The system according to claim 4 wherein the plurality ofcustomer stations enable a first customer at a first customer station tocarry out a first transaction while another customer at another customerstation is carrying out another transaction.
 10. The system according toclaim 9 wherein each customer station allows a customer to carry out atotally automated transaction not requiring item exchange with a serviceprovider at the SP station, wherein a first customer at a first customerstation can carry out a totally automated transaction while anothercustomer at another customer station is carrying out another transactioninvolving a service provider at the SP station.
 11. The system accordingto claim 4 wherein the SP station includes at least one SP cameradevice, wherein each customer station includes a customer video displaydevice in operative connection with the at least one SP camera deviceenabling a customer to view a service provider located at the SP stationin generally real time.
 12. The system according to claim 11 whereineach customer station is in operative connection with the SP stationenabling generally real time video conferencing between a customer at aselected customer station and a service provider located at the SPstation.
 13. A method comprising: (a) receiving customer input at afirst customer station from among a plurality of customer stationslocated inside of a building, wherein the input causes transfer of atleast one first transaction item from the first customer station to aservice provider (SP) station remotely located inside of the buildingfrom the plurality of customer stations, wherein the transfer includespneumatic transport of the at least one first transaction item in apneumatic tube, wherein the SP station is enabled to be operated by aservice provider providing a transaction, wherein the SP stationincludes at least one SP station audio device, at least one SP stationvideo display device, and a customer station selector device thatenables a service provider to selectively communicate with a customer ata customer station, a transport arrangement located inside of thebuilding, wherein the transport arrangement is in operative connectionwith the SP station, wherein the transport arrangement includes at leastone pneumatic tube, wherein the at least one pneumatic tube includes thepneumatic tube, wherein each customer station includes a customerinterface enabled to be operated by a customer requesting a transaction,wherein customer identifying information provided by a customer at acustomer interface is enabled to be received and compared at the SPstation, wherein a customer is allowed to carry out a transactionresponsive to a positive comparison result, wherein each customerinterface enables a customer thereat to exchange items with a serviceprovider located at the SP station via the at least one pneumatic tube,wherein each customer station includes a customer audio device inoperative connection with the at least one SP station audio deviceenabling a service provider located at the SP station and a customer toaudibly communicate in generally real time, wherein each customerstation includes a camera device in operative connection with the atleast one SP station video display device enabling a service providerlocated at the SP station to view a customer in generally real time; and(b) operating the SP station to cause transfer of at least one secondtransaction item from the SP station to the first customer station,wherein the transfer includes pneumatic transport of the at least onesecond transaction item in the pneumatic tube.
 14. The method accordingto claim 13 wherein each customer interface includes both a magneticindicia card reader device and a biometric reading device, wherein eachof the card reader device and the biometric reading device are operativeto read customer identifying input, and further comprising: (c)operating both the card reader device and the biometric reading deviceto read customer identifying input.
 15. The method according to claim 13wherein a robotic handling device is located inside of the building,wherein step (a) includes operating the robotic handling device to movethe at least one first transaction item from the first customer stationto the at least one pneumatic tube, and wherein step (b) includesoperating the robotic handling device to move the at least one secondtransaction item from the at least one pneumatic tube to the firstcustomer station.
 16. The method according to claim 15 wherein a cashdispenser device is located inside of the building, wherein eachcustomer station enables a customer thereat to request a cash withdrawaltransaction, and wherein the robotic handling device is operative tomove cash from the cash dispenser device to each customer station, andfurther comprising (c) operating the robotic handling device to movecash from the cash dispenser device to a customer station during a cashwithdrawal transaction.
 17. The method according to claim 13 wherein onecustomer at one customer station is able to carry out a transactionwhile another customer at an other customer station is carrying outanother transaction, wherein step (a) occurs during a first transaction,and further comprising: (c) during the first transaction, operating another one of the plurality of customer stations in carrying out atransaction.
 18. The method according to claim 17 wherein each customerstation allows a customer to carry out a totally automated transactionnot requiring item exchange with the SP station, wherein step (c)includes operating the other one of the plurality of customer stationsin carrying out a totally automated transaction.